Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Code for
Electrical
Installations at
Oil and Gas
Facilities
4th Edition
2013
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Code
for Electrical
Installations at
Oil and Gas Facilities
Established by the
Electrical Technical Council,
Safety Codes Council
February 2013
Copyright
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form
or by any means, without prior permission of the Safety Codes Council.
Safety Codes Council – Suite 1000, 10665 Jasper Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5J 3S9
(780) 413-0099 1-888-413-0099 Fax (780) 424-5134 1-888-424-5134
www.safetycodes.ab.ca
Preface
The Safety Codes Council is the body responsible for the development and maintenance of this
Code and discharges this responsibility through the Electrical Technical Council. The Electrical
Technical Council has struck a standing committee, the Oil and Gas Code Committee, to provide
expert advice and recommendations for amendments to the Code. The Electrical Technical
Council has endorsed this fourth edition of the Oil and Gas Facilities Code on February 11, 2013.
This fourth edition supersedes the previous edition published in 2007.
The Code was originally developed using the Alberta Oil and Gas Facilities Regulation
(AR318/90) as a guide. The most significant change from the regulation is the recognition of
engineers’ involvement in classifying hazardous locations. Other changes include removing
duplication with rules of the Canadian Electrical Code and adjusting the format of the document.
This Code is designed in the same format as the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I, hereinafter
referred to as the CEC. The numbering system is equivalent to a separate Section of the CEC and
this Code is intended to be supplementary to, or amendatory of, the CEC as indicated in the
Scope. Appendix B19 is the equivalent of Appendix B in the CEC and formatted in the same
way. Diagrams B19 form part of Appendix B19. Annex J19 is designed as an additional Annex
to Appendix J of the CEC. Since this Code is supplementary to, or amendatory of, the CEC, all
other Appendix B or Appendix J notes in the CEC are valid. Appendix C19 is the Organization
and Rules of Procedure for the Committee on the Code for Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas
Facilities approved by the Electrical Technical Council. Appendix D19 is engineering guidelines
for determining area classification.
Changes from the last edition of the Code are expressed with a triangle (Δ) where a requirement
has been added or amended and a “no” symbol (∅) where requirements have been deleted.
Preamble
Some locations where flammable gases or vapours may occur are classified as Class I locations
by Rule 18-004 of the CEC. The CEC further divides these locations into three Zones (Section
18) or two Divisions (Appendix J), depending on the frequency and duration of the occurrence of
flammable quantities of these gases or vapours. Hazardous area classification is the process of
determining which parts of a facility are hazardous and dividing them properly into zones or
divisions to allow appropriate wiring methods and selection of electrical equipment. It is the
responsibility of owners of facilities to ensure that the facilities are properly classified according
to the definitions of the CEC. There are various industry-recommended practices that will help
users in arriving at the proper area classification for their facilities. Some of these are referenced
in Appendix B of the CEC and Appendix D19 of this code.
It is the responsibility of the person doing the area classification on behalf of the owner to ensure
that the result is consistent with CEC requirements. This Code allows for professional engineers,
with adequate related experience, to set the proper area classification of facilities and to
document them under their seal. Without professional involvement, the specific area
classifications outlined in this code shall be the minimum requirements. It remains the
responsibility of the facility owner to determine that these requirements are adequate for each
installation.
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2 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
Acknowledgements
The contents of this publication have evolved from a long-standing tradition of industry
involvement toward the development of oil and gas facilities requirements. Acknowledgement is
given to all of the various stakeholders that have contributed their expert advice over the years.
We also acknowledge the provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba for their
valuable input into this Code.
Following are membership lists of the Electrical Technical Council and the Oil and Gas Code
Committee as of May 2011.
Name Representing
Stan Misyk (Chair) Electrical Safety Codes Officers
Kevin Harrison (Vice Chair N) Education & Training
John Bronius (Vice Chair S) Labour
Larry DeWald Certification Bodies
Denis Holmes Large Municipalities
Darcy Teichroeb Electrical Contractors
Ron Mah Professional Engineers
René Leduc Oil and Gas Processing
Bill McAllister Municipalities
James Rivait Public-at-large
Garfield Lee Municipal Electrical Utilities
Allan Nagel Rural Electrification Areas
Daryl Schmidt Electrical Manufacturers
Jim Porth Large Electrical Utilities
Technical Support
Pierre McDonald / Dave McCallum Chief Electrical Inspector (Technical Administrator)
Dan Niven Technical Advisor
PREFACE, PREAMBLE, ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 3
Name Representing
René Leduc (Chair) Voting Member Electrical Technical Council
Stan Misyk Voting Member Safety Codes Officers & (Elect. Tech. Council)
Dave McCallum (Code Coordinator /
Regulatory Authority
Recorder) Voting Member
Milt Sorensen Voting Member Regulatory Authority
Stephen Hinde Voting Member Regulatory Authority
Mike Anderson Voting Member Regulatory Authority
John Davidson Voting Member Regulatory Authority
Don Basnett Voting Member Electrical Contractors
Jake Driedger Voting Member Drilling Contractors
Richard Beniuk Voting Member Drilling Contractors
Doug Brooks Voting Member Designers/Engineers
Mark Throckmorton Voting Member Corporations
Cecil Gordon Voting Member Corporations
Rudi Stromer Voting Member Corporations
Vince Rowe Ex-officio Member
Tim Driscoll Ex-officio Member
Rod Pack Associate Member Regulatory Authority
Scott McCorriston Associate Member Regulatory Authority
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Contents
Preface............................................................................................................................................ 1
Preamble ........................................................................................................................................ 1
Acknowledgements ....................................................................................................................... 2
Contents ......................................................................................................................................... 4
Section 19 – Oil and Gas Facilities .............................................................................................. 6
Scope........................................................................................................................................... 6
19-000 Scope (see Appendix B19)...................................................................................... 6
19-002 Interpretation .............................................................................................................. 6
General........................................................................................................................................ 6
19-050 Grounding ............................................................................................................... 6
19-052 Installation of Electrical Equipment (see Appendix B19) ...................................... 6
Classification of Oil and Gas Facilities ...................................................................................... 7
19-100 Hazardous Area Classification (see Appendices B19 and D19)............................. 7
19-102 Common Classifications for Oil and Gas Facilities (see Appendix B19) .............. 7
19-104 Supplemental Classifications for Oil and Gas Drilling and Servicing Operations
(see Appendix B19) ................................................................................................................ 8
19-106 Supplemental Classifications for Oil and Gas Wells (see Appendix B19)............. 9
19-108 Supplemental Classifications for Water Flood and Disposal Systems
(see Appendix B19) ................................................................................................................ 9
Appendix B19 .............................................................................................................................. 10
Notes on Rules .......................................................................................................................... 10
Appendix B19 Diagrams........................................................................................................... 13
Diagram B1 – Service Rig .................................................................................................... 13
Diagram B2 – Drilling Rig ................................................................................................... 14
Diagram B3 – Mud Tank in a Non-enclosed Area ............................................................... 15
Diagram B4 – Mud Tank in a Enclosure .............................................................................. 15
Diagram B5 – Mud Tank in an Enclosure ............................................................................ 16
Diagram B6 – Solids Control Apparatus in an Enclosure .................................................... 16
Diagram B7 – Wellhead in an Enclosure.............................................................................. 17
Diagram B8 – Junction Box for Submersible Pumps ........................................................... 17
Diagram B9 – Enclosed Area Adjacent to a Classified Area ............................................... 18
Diagram B10 – Tool Launching or Receiving Installation................................................... 18
Diagram B11 – Typical Wellhead ........................................................................................ 19
Diagram B12 – Valves, Pumps, Manifolds, etc.................................................................... 19
Diagram B13 – Transmission or Process Facility................................................................. 20
Diagram B14 – Storage tank for Flammable Liquid ............................................................ 20
Diagram B15 – Water Flood Disposal.................................................................................. 21
Diagram B16 – Process Vents and Instrument & Control Device Vents ............................. 21
Appendix C19 .............................................................................................................................. 22
CONTENTS 5
(4) A combination motor controller shall be permitted to be used as service equipment for a
single oil well pump.
Classification of Oil and Gas Facilities
19-100 Hazardous Area Classification (see Appendices B19 and D19)
(1) Classification of hazardous locations established and documented by a professional
engineer under the engineer’s seal and signature shall be the area classification.
(2) Where a facility has not been classified in accordance with Subrule (1), or evidence of
an engineer’s involvement is not satisfactory to the inspection authority having jurisdiction,
Rules 19-102 to 19-108 shall be the minimum requirement.
19-102 Common Classifications for Oil and Gas Facilities (see Appendix B19)
(1) The following are Class I, Zone 0 hazardous locations:
(a) the vapour space inside enclosed vessels or tanks containing a substance capable
of producing an explosive gas atmosphere;
(b) the area within 0.5 m around an atmospheric vent venting from a Zone 0 area.;
(c) a minimum area of 0.5 m around an equipment process vent; and
(d) the area within 0.15 m around an instrument or control device vent.
(2) The following are Class I, Zone 1 hazardous locations:
(a) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing tanks, pumps, valves, flanges or
other equipment that is a potential source of leakage of flammable liquid, gas or
vapour, except shed type enclosures shall be permitted to be Class I Zone 2
hazardous locations when open on 3 sides from grade to roof level and roof
ventilators are provided where lighter-than-air gases may accumulate;
(b) the interior of buildings or enclosures, any part of which is located in a Class I,
Zone 1 hazardous location, unless the buildings or enclosures are separated from
the classified area by a vapour-tight barrier;
(c) any pit, depression or area below grade in a Class I, Zone 2 hazardous location
where flammable liquids or flammable heavier-than-air gases and vapours may
accumulate;
(d) the area within 1.5 m of a tool launcher/receiver opening or other similar facility;
(e) the area around atmospheric vents:
(i) for 1.5 m when venting from a Zone 1 area; or
(ii) between 0.5 m and 1.5 m when venting from a Zone 0 area;
(f) a minimum area of between 0.5 m and 1.5 m around an equipment process vent;
and
(g) the area between 0.15 m and 0.5 m around an instrument or control device vent.
(3) The following are Class I, Zone 2 hazardous locations:
(a) outdoor or unenclosed areas within 3 m in any direction of a potential source of
leakage of flammable liquid, gas or vapour;
(b) outdoor areas within 3 m of the outer confines of buildings or enclosures that are
Class I, Zone 1 hazardous locations, plus an additional horizontal distance of
4.5 m to a height of 600 mm above grade level where flammable liquids or
CODE
8 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
flammable heavier-than-air gases and vapours may accumulate, unless the outer
confines of the building are vapour-tight;
(c) the area within 3 m in any direction of any flammable gas or liquid storage vessel
or tank and, where flammable liquids or flammable heavier-than-air gases and
vapours may accumulate:
(i) an additional horizontal distance of 4.5 m to a height of 600 mm above grade
level, or
(ii) when a dike is provided, the area within the perimeter and extending up to the
top of the dike;
(d) the interior of buildings or enclosures, any part of which is located in a Class I,
Zone 2 hazardous location, unless the buildings or enclosures are separated from
the classified area by a vapour-tight barrier;
(e) the area between 1.5 m and 3 m of a tool launcher/receiver opening or other
similar facility;
(f) the area around atmospheric vents:
(i) for 3 m when venting from a Zone 2 area; or
(ii) between 1.5 m and 3 m when venting from a Zone 1 or Zone 0 area;
(g) a minimum area of between 1.5 m and 3 m around an equipment process vent;
and
(h) the area between 0.5 m and 1 m around an instrument or control device vent.
19-104 Supplemental Classifications for Oil and Gas Drilling and Servicing Operations
(see Appendix B19)
The following are Class I, Zone 2 hazardous locations:
(a) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing tanks for normal well kill or
circulating fluids where the fluids do not normally contain substances capable of
creating an explosive gas atmosphere;
(b) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing open mixing or solids control
apparatus;
(c) areas within 2 m of mud tanks and shale shakers where an enclosure is not
provided;
(d) for areas above rig floors:
(i) the entire area above the an enclosed rig floor to 3 m or the top of the
enclosure, whichever is greater;
(ii) within 2 m horizontally of the centre of the well to a height of 3 m, where the
rig floor is of the open type (not enclosed)
(e) for areas below rig floors:
(i) the entire area under an enclosed substructure; or
(ii) within 2 m horizontally of the centre of the well where the substructure is of
the open type
(f) the area within 2 m horizontally of the centre of the well and 3 m vertically of the
uppermost well bore opening where a rig floor is not provided; and
(g) the area within the choke manifold building.
SECTION 19 – OIL AND GAS FACILITIES 9
19-106 Supplemental Classifications for Oil and Gas Wells (see Appendix B19)
(1) The area within 1.5 m in any direction of a casing vent where explosive gas
atmospheres are present under normal operation is a Class I, Zone 1 hazardous location.
(2) The following are Class I, Zone 2 hazardous locations:
(a) the area within 1.5 m in any direction of a casing vent where explosive gas
atmospheres are not present under normal operation;
(b) the area between 1.5 m and 3 m in any direction of a casing vent where explosive
gas atmospheres are present under normal operation; and
(c) the area within 1.5 m horizontally of a junction box used for connection to a
submersible pump downhole cable and extending from 1.5 m above the box to
grade level, unless a wellhead feed-through-device is installed that prevents the
migration of explosive gas atmospheres through the cable.
19-108 Supplemental Classifications for Water Flood and Disposal Systems
(see Appendix B19)
The following are Class I, Zone 2 hazardous locations:
(a) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing produced water injection wells; and
(b) the interior of buildings in which water produced in conjunction with crude oil or
fresh water containing gas is stored or processed or is subject to pumping
operations.
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Appendix B19
Notes on Rules
The notes and diagrams in this Appendix are for information and clarification purposes only and
apply to the following rules:
Rule Note
19-000 Persons using this Code should be aware of other regulatory requirements such as in
Scope the areas of energy, occupational health & safety and environment.
See also Appendix J and notes on rules 18-000, 18-002 and 18-006 in Appendix B of
the CEC.
It is not intended that Rule 19-000(2)(d) exempt fuel supply systems from being
classified but rather to indicate that they are not covered by this Code. Certain fuel
supply systems may be classified just as certain areas of refineries are classified.
Where installations are not covered by this Code [19-000(2) (a) to (d)], sound
engineering principles should be applied to determine if an installation should be
classified in accordance with Rules 18-004 and 18-006 of the CEC.
19-052 This rule allows for additional situations not specifically addressed in the CEC.
Users should give careful consideration to electrical installations where
adverse conditions expose electrical equipment to a corrosive environment or to
excessive moisture. The nature of activity at oil well servicing or drilling
operations (i.e., equipment subject to splashing or direct streams of water), may
require the use of “Type 4” enclosures, “type TE” motors or equivalent. For
additional information on IEC Ingress Protection (I.P.) designations, refer to
IEC Standard 529 and CEC Appendix B note to rule 18-106(5).
19-052(1) The use of flexible cord at drilling and servicing sites or oil and gas wells is
intended to recognize situations where fixed wiring methods cannot provide the
necessary degree of movement for fixed or mobile electrical equipment required
to be frequently moved. It is not intended to be a substitute for fixed wiring.
Excessive length, quantities and use of flexible cord or portable power cable is
to be avoided.
19-052(4) The use of a combination motor controller as service equipment for a single oil well
pump may be appropriate where the utility has no meter or where the supply service
requirements of the CEC permit “hot” metering installations. The supply authority
should be consulted for metering requirements.
When a small auxiliary load must also be supplied, a single feeder may be ‘tapped off’
the combination motor controller from the load side of the main disconnecting means
in compliance with Rules 12-3032(2) & 14-100 of the CEC and provided the terminal
is approved to accommodate the tap conductor. When adding an auxiliary load,
consideration should be given to the main overcurrent device and the feeder or service
conductors of the combination motor controller to ensure they are properly sized.
APPENDIX B19, NOTES ON RULES 11
19-100 This rule recognizes the expertise of an engineer in classifying Oil and Gas
facilities. The engineer must be experienced in determining area classifications
for hazardous locations as outlined in Rule 18-006 of the CEC and
knowledgeable in using industry-recognized standards and recommended
practices. (See notes on rule 18-006 in Appendix B of the CEC.)
Without engineering involvement, the requirements for classifying hazardous
locations in rules 19-102 to 19-108 are the minimum requirements. When
applying these minimum requirements, users are advised of their responsibility
to ensure that they are adequate for the installation. Circumstances may dictate
the need to exceed these rules to achieve an acceptable level of safety
performance.
19-102 Rule 19-102 outlines area classifications for various installations that can be
19-104 common to all types of oil and gas facilities. Rule 19-104 to 19-108 outline
19-106 additional or supplemental area classifications for situations encountered at
specific installations.
19-108
The term “flammable” used throughout these rules with the words liquids,
gases, and vapours should be taken in the context of the likelihood for these
substances to create an explosive gas atmosphere. For more information on
flammable liquids, gases and vapours see American Petroleum Institute RP500
& RP505 and NFPA Standard No. 30.
To aid in the application of these rules, see the Diagrams B1 to B16.
19-102 To differentiate between different types of vents, the term is divided into three
(1)(b),(c),(d) distinct categories: process equipment vents (e.g., pressure relief valves, blow-
(2)(e),(f),(g) downs, etc.), instrument and control device vents (e.g., vents from gas actuated
control devices, gas chromatograph vents, etc.) and atmospheric vents (e.g.,
(3)(f),(g),(h)
building ridge vents, roof vents, tank vents, etc.). See American Petroleum
Institute RP500 & RP505 for further information.
19-102 Classification requirements for process equipment vents are expressed in terms
(1)(c), (2)(f), of absolute minimums. Criteria affecting classification of areas around process
& (3)(g) equipment vents in non-enclosed areas are diverse. Sound engineering
judgement should be applied for specific cases, but in no case should the
classification be less than those in the referenced rules and those shown in
Diagram B16.
19-102(2)(a) When we interpret the requirement of roof ventilators for shed type buildings or
enclosures, we should take into consideration the shape of the roof. In contrast
to a gabled roof, flat roofs would not normally allow a significant accumulation
of lighter than-air-gases unless the fascia or roof edge prevented those gases
CODE
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from dispersing.
19-102(3)(d) When locating enclosures or buildings (with electrical equipment intended for
non-hazardous locations) adjacent to a classified area, we should consider the
boundary of the classified area as being an arbitrary line. Even though the
building or enclosure does not infringe upon the classified area, care should be
taken to avoid locating them in close proximity to these areas, unless they have
a vapour-tight barrier. American Petroleum Institute RP500 and RP505 define
vapour-tight barrier as a barrier that will not allow the passage of significant
quantities of gas or vapour at atmospheric pressure.
A risk analysis by the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors has
determined that the probability of an explosive gas atmosphere occurring in a
“doghouse” located outside the hazardous area of a drilling rig floor (with or
without winter enclosures) is less than 1 hour in 100 years. The 1 hour in 100
years probability or less is the industry accepted norm for determining non-
hazardous locations. For this reason, the “doghouse” located outside the
hazardous area of the floor of a drilling rig is unclassified. Owners/operators
may adopt policies that impose a more stringent wiring method as well as limit
the type of equipment that can be used in the “doghouse”.
19-108 The water flood / water disposal situation as described by Rule 19-108 and
shown in Diagram B15 assumes that water in the course of its use has been
contaminated with flammable liquids or vapours but has gone through multiple
stages of separation or filtration and is virtually non-flammable. However
enclosures housing such water flood / disposal equipment are classified Zone 2
in the event that the filtration or separation process fails. Because the expected
release rate from the water flood/disposal building is insignificant, the
classification outside the water flood/disposal building is omitted in Diagram
B15.
Rule 19-108 can also assume situations where the water is likely to contain
flammables due to process upset conditions but the associated equipment in the
enclosure is vented to the outside of the enclosure. If equipment vents are not
extended to the outside of the enclosed area, the enclosure should be classified
Zone 1.
Rule 19-108 is not intended for situations where produced/processed water is
likely to contain flammables on routine occasions or that could release sizeable
quantities of flammables for extended periods. These types of situations call for
proper engineering in accordance with Rule 19-100(1) or could alternatively be
classified as a process facility in accordance with Rule 19-102.
Appendix B19 DIAGRAMS 13
Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
3m Rig
Floor
Grade Level 2m
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Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
Accum. Bldg
Boiler
Bldg
Fuel
Tank
Pump Gen.
Sub-structure Bldg. Bldg
Gen.
Choke Bldg
Manifold
Bldg
Mud Tank Mud Tank
2m Mix &
Solids Control
Plan View
Rig Floor 3m
Sub-Structure
2m
Mud
Tank
Grade Level
Appendix B19 DIAGRAMS 15
Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
Shale Shaker
2m
2m
Mud Level
Enclosure
Mud Level
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Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
Enclosure
3m
Liquid Level
Enclosure
Appendix B19 DIAGRAMS 17
Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
Enclosure
3m
1.5m
H.V.
Junction
Box
Seal To Wellhesd
To Motor
Control
Grade Level
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Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
Source
Vapour Tight
Barriers
1.5m
1.5m
Appendix B19 DIAGRAMS 19
Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
3m 3m
3m
3m
3m
3m 3m
Grade
Level Additional when heavier-
than-air vapours are present
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Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
600 mm
Appendix B19 DIAGRAMS 21
Hazardous Area
Classification
Zone 0 Zone 1 Zone 2
Gas
Storage or
Surge Tanks
Note: This diagram is specific to water flood disposal systems. It should not be used as a guide for
assuming that a Zone 2 classification does not extend beyond the building or enclosure for other
types of facilities that are classified Zone 2.
Diagram B16 – Process Vents and Instrument & Control Device Vents
[See Rules 19-102(1)(c) & (d), (2)(f) & (g), (3)(g) & (h)]
Gas Operated
control devices
Process
Equipment Vent
[See Appendix B note 19-102
(1)c), (2)(f) & (3)(g)]
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Appendix C19
THE COMMITTEE ON THE CODE FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS
FACILITIES
Organization and Rules of Procedure
1. General
1.1
The Committee on the Code for Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas Facilities (hereinafter
referred to as the O&G Code Committee) shall operate under the authority of the Electrical
Technical Council of the Safety Codes Council established under the Safety Codes Act.
1.2
The Committee shall be responsible for the development of the Code for Electrical Installations
at Oil and Gas Facilities (hereinafter called the O&G Code), which shall consist of safety
standards for electrical installations used in the search, transmission, or production of oil, natural
gas and related hydrocarbons.
2.3.2 The O&G Code Committee shall be composed of members, selected from the oil and gas
industry representing the viewpoints of:
(1) The Electrical Technical Council
(2) Corporations
(3) Drilling Contractors
(4) Electrical Contractors
(5) Designers/Engineers
(6) Safety Codes Officers
(7) Others as determined by the Oil and Gas Committee
2.3.3 It is further recommended that:
(1) The O&G Code Committee be composed of not more than 10 members;
(2) At the discretion of the Committee Chair, the number of members be increased if further
representation is required;
(3) At least 1 member of the Committee in addition to the Chair be from the Electrical
Technical Council;
(4) At least 1 member of the Committee be from a regulatory authority (Alberta Municipal
Affairs);
(5) Not more than one-third of the membership be from any one category;
2.3.4 Members may be nominated by the interest or organization they represent and their
appointment shall be subject to the approval of the Chair of the O&G Code Committee.
2.3.5 Members shall participate actively in the work of the O&G Code Committee.
2.3.6 The Chair of the O&G Code Committee, after consultation with the nominating interest
and the O&G Code Committee, may direct removal of a member who:
(1) Fails to respond promptly and appropriately to Committee correspondence; or
(2) Fails to be actively and appropriately involved in the work and responsibilities of the
Committee.
2.3.7 The O&G Code Committee should consult with individuals or organizations outside the
membership of the O&G Code Committee when specific data or information may be required.
Experts on specific subjects may be asked to attend meetings of the Committee, or to submit
special data or information to the Committee for its use.
2.3.8 The O&G Code Committee Chair may set up Task Groups to study and report on specific
problems. Task Groups may include individuals having expertise not available within the
Committee.
2.3.9 Members of the O&G Code Committee shall be provided with the names and addresses
of the other members of the Committee.
2.3.10 The O&G Code Committee Chair should review periodically the performance of each
member of the Committee, and decide on any changes to the Committee membership.
Consideration should be given to the calibre of responses to correspondence, promptness in
responding to requests for comment, and attendance at meetings.
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2.3.11 Members of the O&G Code Committee should review, on a continuing basis, the O&G
Code for which they are responsible, and initiate proposed amendments where considered
desirable.
2.4 O&G Code Committee Operation
2.4.1 After receiving a proposal from the O&G Code Coordinator, the Chair shall review the
proposal and shall submit it to the O&G Code Committee members.
2.4.3 Meetings shall be held as necessary.
2.4.4 Decisions at meetings or through correspondence shall be based on the consensus
principle.
NOTE: As defined by the Standards Council of Canada in CAN-P-2E, consensus in standardization practice is
achieved when substantial agreement is reached by concerned interests involved in the preparation of a
standard. Consensus implies much more than the concept of a simple majority, but not necessarily unanimity.
2.4.5 The O&G Committee Chair shall report the recommendation of the Committee on the
proposal to the O&G Code Coordinator.
2.4.6 O&G Code Committee reports should make use of the standard format (see Annex A)
and should include, in addition to the proposal, the name of the submitter and the affiliation, the
reason for the proposal, a summary of the Committee's deliberations, and the Committee's
recommendation.
2.4.7 The Committee's deliberations should include the comments of any members who may
not be in agreement with the recommendation.
2.4.8 The O&G Code Coordinator shall submit the Committee report to the Electrical
Technical Council for approval.
Annex A
Code for Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas Facilities
Committee Report
Subject No.:
Chair:
Title:
Date:
Affiliation:
Request or Proposal:
Supporting Information:
Annex B
TO: The Code Coordinator for the Code for Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas Facilities
FROM:
AFFILIATION:
DATE:
Supporting Information:
Appendix D19
Engineering Guidelines for Determining Area Classifications
This guideline section is not intended as a mandatory code for developing area classifications.
Rule 1. Intent:
19-100 (1)
J19-100(1) The intent of this guideline is to promote awareness of the various industry
codes, standards, and recommended practices, which are available and can be
used when performing area classification studies. These references provide
extensive information for many types of facility situations, which are commonly
encountered in the Canadian oil and gas industry; however, knowledge and
experience concerning the application of these codes, standards, and
recommended practices is also needed in order to properly apply them for a
given situation. This guideline intends to identify, at a high level, the most
common considerations, which need to be addressed when performing an area
classification.
2. Stakeholders:
3. Scope:
Per the general scope of the Code for Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas
Facilities rule 19-000, the scope of this guideline focuses on facilities used in
the search, transmission, and production of crude oil, natural gas, and related
hydrocarbons.
Many of the above factors are best understood by disciplines other than
electrical engineers and designers. These disciplines may include:
- process engineers
- heating and ventilation engineers
- air quality scientists or engineers
- operations specialists
- fire and safety specialists
- maintenance personnel
- instrumentation engineers
Hence, an area classification may require input from some or all of these
respective disciplines. It should be decided by corporate policies and/or
engineering staff, based on the scope and complexity of the project, if and when
these various skill sets need to be used, and what their level of involvement
needs to be. The individual leading the area classification study should be
knowledgeable and competent in the principles of area classification.
CODE
30 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
also maintain those records per any regulatory and/or contractually required
time periods. These records should be accessible, upon request, by any affected
stakeholder.
In order to avoid long searches for old project files, all relevant information
should be recorded on the area classification drawing itself, e.g. results of
fugitive emission studies with date or revision number, minimum ventilation
rates, rationales, process conditions, and any other important comments. See
also Section 11 “Drawing Requirements” below.
Note that company specific operating and safety procedures may require onsite
access to, or posting of, area classification drawings for convenient reference.
If this is the case, drawings should be well organized, uncluttered, and easy to
understand.
9. Management of Change:
Area classification studies and drawings are based on certain assumptions and
conditions. If process or operating conditions change (due to plant expansions,
equipment relocations, changes in inlet or process streams, changes in
operating pressures, changes in operating procedures, alteration of building
ventilation, changes in site grading, etc), or if conditions are not adhered to
(e.g. gas detection is no longer maintained in proper working order), then the
area classification may be rendered invalid. Depending upon the exact nature
of the changes, this may lead to an unsafe condition. Actions should be taken to
ensure that a valid area classification is put in place and its requirements are
adhered to.
stakeholders who will be responsible for ensuring that these conditions are
satisfied during the initial installation and throughout the life of the facility.
This may involve various communication or design approaches including:
- Facilities will typically have a site specific engineering drawing set due
to the complexity of the site.
- Simple installations, such as stand-alone pumpjacks or wellheads, may
use typical drawings as outlined in company standards without
providing drawings for each individual small facility. These typicals
APPENDIX D19 – ENGINEERING GUIDELINES 33
Field and shop inspectors should be provided with the engineered area
classification drawings and studies applicable to the facility to be inspected. In
the absence of this information, the requirements of the Code for Electrical
Installations at Oil and Gas Facilities shall apply. However, the absence of
engineered area classification drawings and studies may lead to an unsafe
situation if the appropriate engineered area classification would have otherwise
required zone ratings or distances that exceed the requirements of the Code for
CODE
34 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
Electrical Installations at Oil and Gas Facilities. This is why, the inspector
should be furnished with the current engineered area classification .
Scope
J19-000 Scope (see Annex JB19)
(1) This Annex applies to electrical installations used in the search, transmission, or
production of oil, natural gas and related hydrocarbons.
(2) This Annex does not apply to electrical installations used in:
(a) petroleum refineries;
(b) petrochemical facilities;
(c) gas distribution systems operated by a gas utility at a pressure of 700 kPa or less
for the purpose of distributing gas to consumers in all or part of a municipality;
and
(d) fuel supply systems for equipment.
(3) This Annex is supplementary to, or amendatory of, the requirements of the CEC.
J19-002 Interpretation
This Code and any standards referenced herein do not make or imply any assurance or guarantee
by the authority adopting this Code with respect to life expectancy, durability or operating
performance of equipment and materials referenced herein.
General
J19-050 Grounding
A ground detection device is not required for the ungrounded secondary circuit of a supply
transformer for a single downhole submersible oil pump.
J19-052 Installation of Electrical Equipment (see Annex JB19)
(1) Flexible cord or portable power cable shall be permitted at drilling and servicing sites
or oil and gas wells provided the flexible cord or portable power cable:
(a) is suitable for exposure to oil and wet locations;
(b) is supported, protected or located in a manner that prevents mechanical damage;
and
(c) otherwise complies with the requirements of CEC rules J18-120(a),(b),(c) and
J18-172(a),(b),(c) for Class I locations.
(2) A lockable switch in the control circuit of the motor contactor for DC traction motors
on drilling and servicing rigs may be used for the disconnecting means required by Section 28 of
the CEC where the switch is located at the motor contactor.
(3) Lighting fixtures and portable equipment shall be supported independently of the cord
and protected from mechanical injury by guards or equivalent means.
(4) The use of a combination motor controller as service equipment for a single oil well
pump may be appropriate where the utility has no meter or where the supply service
requirements of the CEC permit “hot” metering installations. The supply authority should be
consulted for metering requirements. When a small auxiliary load must also be supplied, a single
feeder may be ‘tapped off’ the combination motor controller from the load side of the main
CODE
38 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
disconnecting means in compliance with Rules 12-3032(2) & 14-100 of the CEC and provided
the terminal is approved to accommodate the tap conductor. When adding an auxiliary load,
consideration should be given to the main overcurrent device and the feeder or service
conductors of the combination motor controller to ensure they are properly sized.
(c) the area within 3 m in any direction of any flammable gas or liquid storage vessel
or tank and, where flammable liquids or flammable heavier-than-air gases and
vapours may accumulate:
(i) an additional horizontal distance of 4.5 m to a height of 600 mm above grade
level, or
(ii) when a dike is provided, the area within the perimeter and extending up to the
top of the dike;
(d) the interior of buildings or enclosures, any part of which is located in a Class I,
Division 2 hazardous location, unless the buildings or enclosures are separated
from the classified area by a vapour-tight barrier;
(e) the area between 1.5 m and 3 m of a tool launcher/receiver opening or other
similar facility;
(f) the area around atmospheric vents:
(i) for 3 m when venting from a Division 2 area; or
(ii) between 1.5 m and 3 m when venting from a Division 1 area;
(g) a minimum area of between 1.5 m and 3 m around an equipment process vent;
and
(h) the area between 0.5 m and 1 m around an instrument or control device vent.
J19-104 Supplemental Classifications for Oil and Gas Drilling and Servicing Operations
(See Annex JB19)
The Following are Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations:
(a) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing tanks for normal well kill or
circulating fluids where the fluids do not normally contain substances capable of
creating an explosive gas atmosphere;
(b) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing open mixing or solids control
apparatus;
(c) areas within 2 m of mud tanks and shale shakers where an enclosure is not
provided;
(d) for areas above rig floors:
(i) the entire area above an enclosed rig floor to 3m or to the top of the enclosure
whichever is greater, if provided; or
(ii) within 2 m horizontally of the centre of the well to a height of 3 m, where the rig
floor is of the open type (not enclosed);
(e) for areas below rig floors:
(i) the entire area under an enclosed substructure; or
(f) (ii) within 2 m horizontally of the centre of the well where the substructure is of the
open type;the area within 2 m horizontally of the centre of the well and 3 m
vertically of the uppermost well bore opening where a rig floor is not provided;
and
(g) the area within the choke manifold building.
CODE
40 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
J19-106 Supplemental Classifications for Oil and Gas Wells (see Annex JB19)
(1) The area within 1.5 m in any direction of a casing vent where explosive gas
atmospheres are present under normal operation is a Class I, Division 1 hazardous location.
(2) The following are Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations:
(a) the area within 1.5 m in any direction of a casing vent where explosive gas
atmospheres are not present under normal operation;
(b) the area between 1.5 m and 3 m in any direction of a casing vent where explosive
gas atmospheres are present under normal operation; and
(c) the area within 1.5 m horizontally of a junction box used for connection to a
submersible pump downhole cable and extending from 1.5 m above the box to
grade level, unless a wellhead feed-through-device is installed that prevents the
migration of explosive gas atmospheres through the cable.
J19-108 Supplemental Classifications for Water Flood and Disposal Systems
(See Annex JB19)
The following are Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations:
(a) the interior of buildings or enclosures housing produced water injection wells; and
(b) the interior of buildings in which water produced in conjunction with crude oil or
fresh water containing gas is stored or processed or is subject to pumping
operations.
ANNEX JB19 – NOTES TO RULES FOR ANNEX J19 41
Annex JB19
Notes on Rules for Annex J19
The notes and diagrams in this Annex are for information and clarification purposes only and
apply to the following rules:
Rule Note
J19-000 Persons using this Code should be aware of other regulatory requirements
Scope such as in the areas of energy, occupational health & safety and environment.
See also Appendix J and notes on rules 18-000, 18-002 and 18-006 in
Appendix B of the CEC.
Where installations are not covered by this Code [J19-000(2) (a) to (d)], sound
engineering principles should be applied to determine if an installation should
be classified in accordance with Rules 18-004 and 18-006 of the CEC.
J19-052 This rule allows for additional situations not specifically addressed in the
CEC.
Users should give careful consideration to electrical installations where
adverse conditions expose electrical equipment to a corrosive environment or
to excessive moisture. The nature of activity at oil well servicing or drilling
operations (i.e., equipment subject to splashing or direct streams of water),
may require the use of “Type 4” enclosures, “type TE” motors or equivalent.
For additional information on IEC Ingress Protection (I.P.) designations, refer
to IEC Standard 529 and CEC Appendix B note to rule 18-106(5).
J19-052(1) The use of flexible cord at drilling and servicing sites or oil and gas wells is
intended to recognize situations where fixed wiring methods cannot provide the
necessary degree of movement for fixed or mobile electrical equipment
required to be frequently moved. It is not intended to be a substitute for fixed
wiring. Excessive length, quantities and use of flexible cord or portable power
cable is to be avoided.
J19-052(4) The use of a combination motor controller as service equipment for a single oil
well pump may be appropriate where the utility has no meter or where the
supply service requirements of the CEC permit “hot” metering installations.
The supply authority should be consulted for metering requirements.
When a small auxiliary load must also be supplied, a single feeder may be
‘tapped off’ the combination motor controller in compliance with Rules
12-3032(2) & 14-100 of the CEC. When adding an auxiliary load,
consideration should be given to the main overcurrent device and the feeder or
service conductors of the combination motor controller to ensure they are
properly sized.
CODE
42 FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS AT OIL AND GAS FACILITIES
J19-100 This rule recognizes the expertise of an engineer in classifying Oil and Gas
facilities. The engineer must be experienced in determining area classifications
for hazardous locations as outlined in Rule 18-006 of the CEC and
knowledgeable in using industry-recognized standards and recommended
practices. (See notes on rule 18-006 in Appendix B of the CEC.)
Without engineering involvement, the requirements for classifying hazardous
locations in rules 19-102 to 19-108 are the minimum requirements. When
applying these minimum requirements, users are advised of their responsibility
to ensure that they are adequate for the installation. Circumstances may
dictate the need to exceed these rules to achieve an acceptable level of safety
performance.
J19-102 Rule 19-102 outlines area classifications for various installations that can be
J19-104 common to all types of oil and gas facilities. Rule 19-104 to 19-108 outline
J19-106 additional or supplemental area classifications for situations encountered at
specific installations.
J19-108
The term “flammable” used throughout these rules with the words liquids,
gases, and vapours should be taken in the context of the likelihood for these
substances to create an explosive gas atmosphere. For more information on
flammable liquids, gases and vapours see American Petroleum Institute RP500
& RP505 and NFPA Standard No. 30.
To aid in the application of these rules, see the Diagrams JB1 to JB16.
J19-102 To differentiate between different types of vents, the term is divided into three
(1)(e),(f),(g) distinct categories: process equipment vents (e.g., pressure relief valves, blow-
(2)(f),(g),(h) downs, etc.), instrument and control device vents (e.g., vents from gas actuated
control devices, gas chromatograph vents, etc.) and atmospheric vents (e.g.,
(3)(f),(g),(h)
building ridge vents, roof vents, tank vents, etc.). See American Petroleum
Institute RP500 & RP505 for further information.
J19-102(1)(a) When we interpret the requirement of roof ventilators for shed type buildings
or enclosures, we should take into consideration the shape of the roof. In
contrast to a gabled roof, flat roofs would not normally allow a significant
accumulation of lighter than-air-gases unless the fascia or roof edge prevented
those gases from dispersing.
J19-102 Classification requirements for process equipment vents are expressed in terms
(1)(f) & (2)(g) of absolute minimums. Criteria affecting classification of areas around process
equipment vents in non-enclosed areas are diverse. Sound engineering
judgement should be applied for specific cases, but in no case should the
classification be less than those in the referenced rules and those shown in
Diagram JB16.
ANNEX JB19 – NOTES TO RULES FOR ANNEX J19 43
J19-102(2)(d) When locating enclosures or buildings (with electrical equipment intended for
non-hazardous locations) adjacent to a classified area, we should consider the
boundary of the classified area as being an arbitrary line. Even though the
building or enclosure does not infringe upon the classified area, care should be
taken to avoid locating them in close proximity to these areas, unless they have
a vapour-tight barrier. American Petroleum Institute RP500 and RP505 define
vapour-tight barrier as a barrier that will not allow the passage of significant
quantities of gas or vapour at atmospheric pressure.
A risk analysis by the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors
has determined that the probability of an explosive gas atmosphere occurring
in a “doghouse” located outside the hazardous area of a drilling rig floor
(with or without winter enclosures) is less than 1 hour in 100 years. The 1 hour
in 100 years probability or less is the industry accepted norm for determining
non-hazardous locations. For this reason, the “doghouse” located outside the
hazardous area of the floor of a drilling rig is unclassified. Owners/operators
may adopt policies that impose a more stringent wiring method as well as limit
the type of equipment that can be used in the “doghouse”.
J19-108 The water flood / water disposal situation as described by Rule J19-108 and
shown in Diagram JB15 assumes that water in the course of its use has been
contaminated with flammable liquids or vapours but has gone through multiple
stages of separation or filtration and is virtually non-flammable. However
enclosures housing such water flood / disposal equipment are classified
Division 2 in the event that the filtration or separation process fails. Because
the expected release rate from the water flood/disposal building is
insignificant, the classification outside the water flood/disposal building is
omitted in Diagram JB15.
Rule J19-108 can also assume situations where the water is likely to contain
flammables due to process upset conditions but the associated equipment in the
enclosure is vented to the outside of the enclosure. If equipment vents are not
extended to the outside of the enclosed area, the enclosure should be classified
Division 1.
Rule J19-108 is not intended for situations where produced/processed water is
likely to contain flammables on routine occasions or that could release
sizeable quantities of flammables for extended periods. These types of
situations call for proper engineering in accordance with Rule J19-100(1) or
could alternatively be classified as a process facility in accordance with Rule
J19-102.
Annex JB19 Diagrams
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
3m Rig
Floor
Grade Level 2m
Diagram JB2 – Drilling Rig
[See Rule J19-104]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
Accum. Bldg
Boiler
Bldg
Fuel
Tank
Pump Gen.
Sub-structure Bldg. Bldg
Gen.
Choke Bldg
Manifold
Bldg
Mud Tank Mud Tank
2m Mix &
Solids Control
Plan View
Rig Floor 3m
Sub-Structure
2m
Mud
Tank
Grade Level
Diagram JB3 – Mud Tank in a Non-enclosed Area
(Normal well kill or circulating fluids)
[See Rules J19-104(c)]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
Shale Shaker
2m
2m
Mud Level
Enclosure
Mud Level
Diagram JB5 – Mud Tank in an Enclosure
(Explosive gas atmospheres are present)
[See Rules J19-102(1)(a), (2)(b)]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
Enclosure
3m
Liquid Level
Enclosure
Diagram JB7 – Wellhead in an Enclosure
[See Rules J19-102(1)(a), (2)(b)]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
Enclosure
3m
1.5m
H.V.
Junction
Box
Seal To Wellhesd
To Motor
Control
Grade Level
Diagram JB9 – Enclosed Area Adjacent to a Classified Area
[See Rules J19-102(1)(b) & (2)(d)]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
Source
Vapour Tight
Barriers
1.5m
1.5m
Diagram JB11 – Typical Wellhead
[See Rules J19-102(1)(c), (3)(a) and 19-106(1), (2)(a) & (b)]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
3m 3m
3m
3m
3m
3m 3m
Grade
Level Additional when heavier-
than-air vapours are present
Diagram JB13 – Transmission or Process Facility
[See Rules J19-102(1)(a), (b), (c) & (e), and (2)(b), (d) & (f)]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
600 mm
Diagram JB15 – Water Flood Disposal
[See Rules J19-102(1)(c),(e) & (h), J19-102(2)(c) & (f), and J19-108]
Hazardous Area
Classification
Division 1 Division 2
Gas
Storage or
Surge Tanks
Note: This diagram is specific to water flood disposal systems. It should not be used as a guide for
assuming that a Division 2 classification does not extend beyond the building or enclosure for
other types of facilities that are classified Division 2.
Diagram JB16 – Process Vents and Instrument & Control Device Vents
[See Rules J19-102(1)(f) & (g) and (2)(g) & (h)
Instrument
Div. 1 for 0.5m around vent, and Vent
Div. 2 between 0.5m & 1m.
Div. 1 for a minimum 1.5m around vent, and
Div. 2 for a minimum of between 1.5m & 3m
Gas Operated
control devices
Process
Equipment Vent
[See Appendix JB note JB19-102
(1)(f), & (2)(g)]
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